Edith Munsey Wilkerson

Edith Munsey Wilkerson passed away peacefully on July 31, 2024, at the age of 95 in

Christiansburg, Virginia. Born on February 21, 1929, in Bluefield, West Virginia, to Carlyle Griffin

Jessee and Ella Munsey Jessee, Edith's life was a testament to her enduring spirit and love for

her family.

Edith worked at Heironimus Department store as the Buyer for Women’s Clothing for a number

of years. She then embarked on a career conducting surveys for the government, which showcased

her meticulous nature and commitment to her community. Edith's warm and welcoming

demeanor made her a beloved hostess at the Roanoker restaurant for many years, where she

greeted patrons with her signature smile. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to become the owner

and operator of Wilkerson Tax Service on Brambleton Road in Roanoke, where she was

respected for her integrity and kindness. Edith would rise before dawn and work into the night at

the profession that she loved.

Beyond her professional achievements, Edith was an avid participant in dog shows, traveling

across the Southeast with her family's cherished Scottie. During her life she was involved with

two more Scotties that always saluted with wags in her presence.

Edith loved taking care of her house and yard. Many early walkers would find her working with

her flowers or trimming shrubs just after dawn during the summer.

Edith's legacy is carried on by her loving children, Deborah Anne Wilkerson and Jesse Franklin

Wilkerson (Eva Darlene), her cherished granddaughter, Mary Elizabeth "Lisa" Dobbins (Todd),

and her adored great-grandsons, Easton Jackson Dobbins and Archer Rodes Dobbins. She

also leaves behind a dear family friend, Katherine Huffman. Edith was preceded in death by her

parents, her brother, Tyler Jessee, and her sister, Frances Jessee.

Edith's life was based on the premise that she could do anything, an attitude that she passed on

to her children. Her memory will be treasured and her presence deeply missed.

A visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 7th from 4 pm until 6 pm in the lower parlor at

John M. Oakey & Son Funeral home & Crematory.

Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.johnmoakey.com